9 BEST Financial Modeling Courses (2025)
Charlotte Miller
Every financial decision is only as strong as the model behind it. A financial modeling course delivers the right skills to build reliable projections, perform valuations, and present data persuasively. I created this guide to help finance professionals and aspiring analysts identify top-tier resources that are both practical and credible. Financial modeling remains the backbone of investment banking, corporate finance, and FP&A. Gamification and interactive dashboards are now transforming course delivery.
After spending over 100 hours reviewing 40+ online financial modeling courses, I have carefully curated this trusted selection to help learners at every stage. These well-researched programs offer a transparent breakdown of features, pros and cons, and pricing—both free and paid. A few years ago, I relied on a professional course to sharpen my valuation techniques for a private equity client. This may help you do the same, with verified, up-to-date recommendations. Read more…
Best Online Financial Modeling Courses with Certificate
| Course | Provider | Key Topics | Level | Duration | Certification | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business and Financial Modeling Specialization | Coursera | • Fundamentals of Quantitative Modeling • Decision-Making and Scenarios |
Beginner | 6 Months | Yes | Learn More |
| Wharton Business and Financial Modeling Capstone | Coursera | • Diversification (Finance) • Investment |
Beginner + Intermediate | Approx. 13 hours | Yes | Learn More |
| Advanced Valuation and Strategy | Coursera | • Financial Analysis • Business Strategy |
Advanced | 16 hours | Yes | Learn More |
| Beginner to Pro in Excel: Financial Modeling and Valuation | Udemy | • Financial Functions • Financial modeling basics |
Beginner | 15.5 hours of on-demand video course | Yes | Learn More |
| Financial Modeling for Startups & Small Businesses | Udemy | • Modeling best practices • Modeling growth |
Intermediate | 11.5 hours of on-demand video | Yes | Learn More |
1) Business and Financial Modeling Specialization (Coursera)
Specs: Overall Rating: 4.5 | Duration: 6 Months | Level: Beginner | Courses: 5 Specializations | Free Trial: 7-day | Certificate: Yes
Business and Financial Modeling Specialization impressed me with its comprehensive content and clear instruction style. I analyzed the course details and found that it helps you build confidence in financial analysis and modeling, even if you are new to the topic. The tool made complex topics like risk management and financial forecasting more accessible through practical assignments and interactive lessons. I suggest this course for anyone looking to step up their financial modeling skills without getting overwhelmed. It is a great option that suits various learning needs and backgrounds. Many asset managers typically use this specialization to improve their financial projections and decision-making skills.
This specialization delivers practical financial modeling skills that helped me confidently build models used in budgeting and forecasting. It is flexible and fits professionals from different industries, which made it easier for me to apply what I learned in my consulting work. I received a 100% shareable certificate that I added to my LinkedIn profile for better visibility. The platform connects you with a global learner community, and I found peer feedback particularly insightful. I recommend enabling subtitles in your language to fully grasp financial terms during video sessions.
What will you learn?
- Intro to Quantitative Models: You will learn the fundamentals of quantitative thinking, helping you break down business problems into structured models. This is a great option for analytical roles.
- Spreadsheet Modeling & Scenarios: I built multiple scenario-based models in spreadsheets that reflected both routine and extreme outcomes. This is one of the easiest ways to understand the practical use of spreadsheet tools in financial modeling.
- Risk Modeling Techniques: You will develop skills to handle real-world constraints and unpredictable variables. This typically includes sensitivity testing and risk-based forecasting.
- Wharton Capstone Application: You will complete a practical business project that brings all skills together into a comprehensive financial model. It’s an essential part of validating your learning.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: You will learn to use data to support strategic choices, enabling evidence-based business decisions. This is great for improving judgment under uncertainty and aligning analysis with real objectives.
Pricing:
Free to enroll
How to Enroll in the Business and Financial Modeling Specialization Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Business and Financial Modeling Specialization course page on Coursera.
- Step 2) Click the “Enroll for Free” button. You’ll be prompted to sign in or create a Coursera account using your email.
- Step 3) Start learning immediately with a 7-day free trial. Begin your journey with video lectures, quizzes, and hands-on assignments provided by Wharton.
Pros
Cons
2) Wharton Business and Financial Modeling Capstone (Coursera)
Specs: Overall Rating: 4.6 | Duration: Approx. 13 hours | Level: Beginner + Intermediate | Certificate: Yes
Wharton Business and Financial Modeling Capstone (Coursera) is a remarkable course that I have found extremely helpful. I was able to grasp complex financial modelling techniques more clearly thanks to its structured lessons. The course offers a well-rounded curriculum that allows you to understand essential models like DCF and M&A. During my analysis, I noticed how the practical case studies enhance learning by linking theory with real-world applications. This course is perfect for business and finance professionals aiming to develop high-quality financial models with confidence.
This course delivered a structured learning journey that helped me build a strong foundation in financial modeling. It is well-suited for professionals in business, accounting, or finance who want to sharpen their skills. I found Richard Lambert’s teaching style clear and practical. The combination of videos, readings, and graded quizzes added depth to my understanding. I suggest reviewing feedback from graded quizzes carefully, as it often highlights areas you might miss during practice.
What will you learn?
- Core Financial Modeling: You will learn the essential components of financial modeling, from structuring assumptions to maintaining spreadsheets that reflect changing inputs. I applied this foundation to clean up and scale an early-stage model I had built.
- Finance Tools & CAPM Practice: You will learn how to use Yahoo Finance for pulling stock data and apply CAPM tables for practical exercises. This is a great way to enhance analytical precision.
- Portfolio Optimization Techniques: You will learn how to build an optimal risky portfolio by analyzing risk-return trade-offs on the efficient frontier. This may help when evaluating investment options.
- Asset Allocation Strategy: You will learn to design your asset allocation plan by balancing risk preferences and expected returns. It’s a good idea to align this with long-term financial goals.
- Final Project Presentation: You will learn how to deliver a well-structured presentation of your financial model and strategy, which is typically required in professional and academic settings.
Pricing:
Free to enroll
How to Enroll in the Wharton Business and Financial Modeling Capstone Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Wharton Business and Financial Modeling Capstone course page on Coursera.
- Step 2) Tap the “Enroll for Free” button and create a Coursera account with your email.
- Step 3) Dive into the course by starting your learning experience with hands-on modeling, real-world datasets from WRDS, and strategic decision-making presentations.
Pros
Cons
3) Advanced Valuation and Strategy – M&A, Private Equity, and Venture Capital (Coursera)
Specs: Overall Rating: 4.6 | Duration: 16 Hours | Level: Advanced | Courses: 5 Specializations | Free Trial: 7-day | Certificate: Yes
While reviewing Advanced Valuation and Strategy – M&A, Private Equity, and Venture Capital on Coursera, I noticed it stands out for teaching advanced valuation techniques in a very straightforward way. The course helped me understand complex financial models, deal financing, and post-merger integration without feeling overwhelmed. It is perfect for those new to corporate finance or aiming to boost their skills in M&A and venture capital fields. The focus on practical tools like DCF and multiples makes it a great way to learn financial modeling effectively. I would recommend this course to anyone looking to deepen their financial valuation expertise.
This course introduced me to advanced valuation techniques used in M&A, private equity, and venture capital with real clarity. I worked through DCF, deal structuring, and multiple analysis in a way that felt practical and goal-driven. While using this feature one thing I noticed was how applying exit strategies to real scenarios improved my grasp of investor expectations. The private equity section added depth to my financial statement analysis. I earned a certificate upon completion, which I added to my portfolio.
What will you learn?
- Discounted Cash Flow Modeling: You will learn how to build a full DCF model, incorporating WACC, terminal value, and cash flow projections. I once created a DCF to compare multiple acquisition targets.
- Corporate Strategy Integration: You will learn how to link financial modeling with corporate objectives and KPIs. This is a good idea to ensure models reflect strategic goals.
- Valuing Strategic Options: You will learn how to apply corporate real options and option games to capture opportunity value under uncertainty. This is one of the most effective tools for high-stakes investment modeling.
- Risk-Adjusted Decision Modeling: You will learn how to incorporate risk profiles and scenario-based outcomes into financial models, which helps you evaluate decisions with uncertainty in mind. I used this approach to quantify downside risk in a capital allocation model.
- Competitive Strategy Simulation: You will learn how to use financial models to simulate competitor moves and market reactions, which is a great way to align financial planning with game theory principles. This may help when analyzing strategic trade-offs.
Pricing:
Enroll for free
How to Enroll in the Advanced Valuation and Strategy – M&A, Private Equity, and Venture Capital Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Advanced Valuation and Strategy course page on Coursera.
- Step 2) Tap the “Enroll for Free” button and create a Coursera account using your email.
- Step 3) Dive into the course by starting your learning experience with in-depth lessons on valuation, real options, and strategic decision-making in corporate finance.
Pros
Cons
4) Beginner to Pro in Excel: Financial Modeling and Valuation (Udemy)
Specs: Overall Rating: 4.5 | Duration: 15.5 hours on-demand video | Level: Beginner | Courses: 30 sections – 307 lectures | Free Trial: 7-Day | Certificate: Yes
Beginner to Pro in Excel: Financial Modeling and Valuation caught my attention for its engaging content and user-friendly design. I tested the course structure and noticed it offers an excellent way to learn financial modeling skills without feeling overwhelmed. It offered me practical tools to analyze financial statements, forecast outcomes, and build models efficiently. In my opinion, this course is one of the easiest ways to get hands-on experience with Excel for finance. I suggest it for anyone who wants to enhance their modeling abilities and pursue finance careers. Professionals in corporate finance often rely on this course to improve their budgeting and valuation skills.
It gave me a structured path with over 300 lectures that made complex ideas easy to follow. It is great for beginners and professionals alike, especially with content backed by 365 Careers. I worked through real-life case studies that showed how to apply concepts immediately. I recommend downloading the example files to follow along during each section. I received a certificate of completion, which I added to my training records for future project references.
What will you learn?
- Excel Fundamentals & Functions: You will learn essential Excel tools and financial formulas, which are required in order to perform complex business calculations. This is one of the best ways to build a strong foundation in spreadsheet-based financial work.
- Modeling & Business Analysis: I applied financial modeling techniques using business scenarios in Excel, which allowed me to simulate financial impacts and build structured logic. This is great for anyone looking to apply data in real-world business cases.
- Company Valuation Basics: You will understand the fundamentals of company valuation, including how to estimate business worth using core valuation models. This may help in assessing investment or merger opportunities.
- Capital Budgeting Overview: You will explore capital budgeting principles, learning how to evaluate investment projects. This is helpful to determine the most effective way to allocate long-term capital.
- Scenario Planning in Excel: I used Excel to create dynamic models that tested different financial outcomes based on variable inputs. This allows you to anticipate potential risks and opportunities—one of the most effective ways to improve strategic decision-making under uncertainty.
Pricing:
$8.86 for a course
How to Enroll in the Beginner to Pro in Excel: Financial Modeling and Valuation Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Beginner to Pro in Excel: Financial Modeling and Valuation course page on Udemy.
- Step 2) Click the “Buy Now” or “Add to Cart” button, then sign in or create a Udemy account using your email address.
- Step 3) Complete the purchase process and start learning immediately with lifetime access to all course content.
Pros
Cons
5) Financial Modeling for Startups & Small Businesses (Udemy)
Specs: Overall Rating: 4.3 | Duration: 11.5 hours on-demand video | Level: Intermediate | Courses: 16 sections – 92 lectures | Free Trial: 7-day | Certificate: Yes
Financial Modeling for Startups & Small Businesses stood out as a comprehensive and accessible course. I analyzed its structure and found that it focuses on delivering essential financial modeling knowledge without overwhelming beginners. The tool made it easy to understand forecasting, budgeting, and valuation through well-explained case studies. I recommend this course for anyone looking for a practical solution to develop financial models tailored to startups or small businesses. It is a great option to build confidence in financial decision-making. For example, many small business owners have benefited from this course to plan budgets and attract investors more effectively.
Offers me practical insights through real-world examples that made financial modeling feel relevant and clear. It focuses on multiple business scenarios, which helped me plan better for uncertainty. I appreciated how it covered forecasting, valuation, and investor pitch decks in depth. I suggest reviewing the budgeting section twice if you are new, as it builds the foundation for later modules. The course, led by Evan Kimbrell and Symon He, kept the 92 lectures engaging and easy to follow across its 10-hour runtime.
What will you learn?
- Startup Financial Modeling: You will learn to create structured models incorporating revenue, expenses, and attrition to understand financial health. I built a similar model that helped me evaluate long-term profitability before a funding pitch.
- Cash Flow Forecasting: You will learn how to forecast your startup’s future cash needs, which is one of the most effective ways to avoid liquidity crises.
- Revenue Projections: You will learn how to model your revenue streams based on key drivers like pricing, sales volume, and market size. This may help when planning growth milestones.
- Expense Tracking Models: You will learn how to project both fixed and variable costs over time, which helps you identify potential inefficiencies.
- Churn and Attrition Modeling: You will learn to calculate and simulate customer attrition rates, a helpful way to improve retention strategies.
Pricing:
$8.16 for a course
How to Enroll in the Financial Modeling for Startups & Small Businesses Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Financial Modeling for Startups & Small Businesses course page on Udemy.
- Step 2) Tap the “Buy Now” or “Add to Cart” button and create a Udemy account with your email address if you haven’t already.
- Step 3) Complete the payment process and dive into the course to start learning financial modeling tailored for startups and small businesses.
Pros
Cons
6) Become a Certified Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)® (CFI)
Specs: Overall Rating: 5 | Duration: 4-6 Months | Level: Beginner to Advanced | Courses: 39 Courses | Free Trial: NA | Certificate: Yes
Become a Certified Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)® (CFI) offered me a detailed learning experience covering a wide range of topics needed for financial modeling. I particularly liked how the program breaks down complex concepts into simple steps. During my research, I noticed that the course material remains current with industry trends. It is a top-rated course that helps you build strong financial modeling skills and gain confidence. I recommend it for professionals aiming to improve and certify their abilities.
offered me a structured path that improved my financial modeling clarity and boosted my confidence. I started with the optional prep courses to revisit the basics, then moved through 12 core modules that built my foundation steadily. The electives gave me room to explore advanced topics tied closely to my role. I suggest choosing electives that match your industry for more relevant outcomes. The final exam challenged me just enough to validate my learning, and I saw a real difference in how I structured models for stakeholder presentations.
What will you learn?
- Accounting & Financial Analysis: You will learn how to interpret financial statements and understand core accounting principles that drive profitability and cash flow. I applied this knowledge when reviewing a company’s balance sheet for an internal analysis.
- Budgeting & Forecasting: You will learn how to plan budgets and predict financial outcomes, which is one of the most effective ways to allocate resources efficiently in a growing business.
- Excel for Modeling: You will learn to use Excel to build dynamic financial models, a great option for testing various business scenarios in real time.
- Scenario-Based Modeling: You will learn how to structure assumptions and drivers into usable models, which is essential for decision-making and long-term projections.
- Data-Driven Planning: You will learn how to use historical data to guide strategic forecasting and align financial plans with operational goals. This may help reduce variance across departments.
Pricing:
$347.90 for a course
How to Enroll in the Certified Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA®) Program?
- Step 1) Head over to the FMVA® Program page on the Corporate Finance Institute website.
- Step 2) Click the “Enroll Now” button and create a CFI account with your email address.
- Step 3) Choose your plan (Self-Study or Full Immersion), complete the checkout process, and start your journey with access to all required and elective courses in the FMVA curriculum.
Pros
Cons
7) Financial Modeling: Build a Complete DCF Valuation Model (Udemy)
Specs: Overall Rating: 4.4 | Duration: 5 hours on-demand video | Level: Beginner | Courses: 13 Sections- 89 Lectures | Free Trial: 7-day | Certificate: Yes
Financial Modeling: Build a Complete DCF Valuation Model (Udemy) offers an impressive way to learn how to evaluate a company with confidence. In my experience, the course makes it possible to grasp the essential parts of DCF valuation without feeling overwhelmed. The dynamic exercises and real-life case studies keep the content engaging. I particularly appreciate the lifetime access feature because it allows revisiting complex topics at any time. I suggest this course for anyone aiming to strengthen their financial modeling abilities. Investment analysts frequently choose this course to sharpen their valuation techniques.
This course provided a long-term learning experience through over 5 hours of structured video content that blended smoothly into my routine. I went through financial statement analysis, forecasting, and DCF modeling with clear guidance. The 134 downloadable resources helped me save important templates for later use. While testing this feature, one thing I noticed was that doing the quizzes right after watching each module helped me retain complex topics more effectively. The lifetime access allowed me to revisit lessons whenever I needed a quick refresher.
What will you learn?
- Cash Flow Statement Building: You will learn how to build a complete cash flow statement that connects operating, investing, and financing activities. I once structured one to identify a startup’s liquidity risks.
- Valuation Modeling: You will learn how to build a full valuation model from scratch, which is the most effective way to calculate a company’s worth using DCF, comparables, and more.
- Scenario & Sensitivity Modeling: You will learn how to test different inputs and assumptions using scenario and sensitivity analysis. This helps you prepare for best- and worst-case business environments.
- Advanced Financial Charting: You will learn how to create professional and data-driven financial charts. This may help in making reports visually impactful and easier to interpret.
- Multi-Scenario Model Design: You will learn to structure models that handle multiple scenarios and outputs in Excel. This is a great way to stress-test business plans.
Pricing:
$8.86 for a course
How to Enroll in the Learn How to Value a Company and Build a DCF Model Certificate?
- Step 1) Head over to the Learn How to Value a Company and Build a DCF Model course page on Udemy.
- Step 2) Tap the “Buy Now” or “Add to Cart” button and create a Udemy account with your email if you’re not already signed in.
- Step 3) Complete the payment process and start learning right away with full lifetime access to the course content.
Pros
Cons
8) Excel Business and Financial Modeling PowerPack Course (Skillshare)
Specs: Overall Rating: 4.6 | Duration: 4h 47m | Level: All levels | Free Trial: 1-month | Certificate: Yes
Excel Business and Financial Modeling PowerPack Course delivers a comprehensive and engaging approach to mastering financial analysis and modeling. I was able to access practical lessons and real-world examples easily, which made the entire experience smooth and productive. I suggest this course to anyone who wants to develop solid financial modeling skills without feeling overwhelmed. The quizzes and exercises helped me test my knowledge and stay motivated. Case Study: Small business owners typically benefit from this course by gaining the confidence to create detailed financial plans and forecasts, boosting their decision-making power.
offered a well-rounded curriculum that helped me sharpen my modeling skills across different business cases. I appreciated the self-paced format, especially since it was taught by industry professionals with relevant experience. It felt accessible both for beginners and for someone like me with a consulting background. You will notice the course lets you connect with a global learner network, which adds perspective during project-based discussions. I earned a 100% shareable certificate that now sits on my professional profile.
What will you learn?
- Excel-Based Financial Modeling: You will learn to create solid, forecast-driven financial models using MS Excel that reflect real-world business operations. I applied these techniques to build a 3-statement model for a SaaS company.
- Corporate Financial Analysis: You will learn how to evaluate income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports to assess company health and trends over time. This is a great option for analysts and managers.
- Managerial Economics Essentials: You will learn the economic principles that drive business decisions, which helps you align financial models with market dynamics and cost behavior.
- Forecasting Financial Statements: You will learn the most effective way to project future performance by linking historical data to predictive logic. This helps you improve investment decisions.
- Excel for Professionals: You will learn how to demonstrate advanced Excel skills in a professional context. This may help you streamline reporting and improve credibility in finance teams.
Pricing:
Free to enroll
How to Enroll in the Excel Business and Financial Modeling PowerPack Course?
- Step 1) Head over to the Excel Business and Financial Modeling PowerPack course page on Skillshare.
- Step 2) Click the “Start for Free” or “Join” button and create a Skillshare account using your email address or sign in with an existing account.
- Step 3) Begin your free trial and dive into the course content to start learning Excel-based business and financial modeling techniques.
Pros
Cons
9) Financial Modeling in Excel: Masterclass w/ Financial basics (Udemy)
Specs: Overall Rating: 4.4 | Duration: 10 Hours 57 Minutes | Level: Intermediate | Certificate: Yes
Financial Modeling in Excel: Masterclass w/ Financial basics (Udemy) is a remarkable course I evaluated that simplifies financial modeling concepts and makes them accessible. I could easily grasp the foundational skills needed to become a financial modeling professional. The clear explanations and practical examples made it easier to build models from scratch and analyze financial data. I recommend this course to anyone serious about improving their financial modeling abilities. Case Study: Entrepreneurs often find this course helpful to better understand their financial statements and make smarter business decisions.
It delivered full lifetime access, which made it easy for me to revisit complex sections whenever I needed a refresher. I practiced using the downloadable resource files that supported each module well. I recommend saving those files in organized folders so you can build a reference library over time. It is a good fit for learners who have basic Excel skills and want to start financial modeling with clarity.
What will you learn?
- End-to-End Financial Modeling: You will learn how to understand, structure, and present a complete financial model using Excel. I applied this approach when finalizing my own forecasting model for a team presentation.
- Finance & Valuation Concepts: You will learn the fundamentals of finance including time value of money and DCF, which are essential when estimating the worth of any business.
- Key Accounting & Finance Terms: You will learn the most important accounting and finance terms needed for building accurate financial models. This may help you avoid confusion during model development.
- Excel Model Preparation: You will learn how to organize and calculate financial statements in Excel, a great way to apply financial theory in real business scenarios.
- Model Presentation Skills: You will learn the best way to finalize and present your model professionally, which is typically required in both academic and corporate settings.
Pricing:
$6.41 for a course
How to Enroll in the Financial Modeling in Excel Course?
- Step 1) Head over to the Financial Modeling in Excel course page on Udemy.
- Step 2) Tap the “Buy Now” or “Add to Cart” button and create a Udemy account using your email address if you’re not already signed in.
- Step 3) Complete your purchase and dive into the course content to start learning finance fundamentals, financial modeling, and valuation techniques.
Pros
Cons
How Did We Choose BEST Financial Modeling Courses?
At Guru99, we are committed to delivering accurate, relevant, and objective content through a rigorous editorial process. After over 100 hours reviewing 40+ financial modeling courses, we curated a reliable list tailored for both beginners and professionals. These updated programs provide clear insights into features, pricing, and practical applications, helping learners strengthen skills in valuation, forecasting, and investment analysis. Financial modeling plays a crucial role in enabling data-driven decisions across various industries. We focus on the following factors while reviewing a tool based on industry relevance, course quality, transparency, and long-term value.
- Curriculum Depth: Our team chose based on real-world application, covering forecasting, valuation, and scenario planning with precision.
- Instructor Expertise: We made sure to shortlist instructors with practical finance experience and consistently high learner feedback ratings.
- Hands-On Projects: The experts in our team selected the tools based on their ability to deliver outcome-focused, Excel-based exercises.
- Industry Recognition: We chose courses recognized by top firms and institutions, ensuring your learning holds professional credibility.
- Student Outcomes: We reviewed success metrics to include only those programs with high placement or upskilling rates globally.
- Content Accessibility: We prioritized platforms with adaptable content formats and mobile access to improve learning flexibility for all users.
Verdict:
In this review, you got acquainted with some of the most popular financial modeling courses. All of them deliver meaningful value, but here is my conclusion to help you solve your selection problem.
- Business and Financial Modeling Specialization provides a comprehensive and customizable learning path ideal for building practical models across finance disciplines.
- Wharton Business and Financial Modeling Capstone stands out for its structured projects that allow learners to test strategies under real-world conditions.
- Advanced Valuation and Strategy offers a powerful focus on high-stakes finance scenarios, making it a robust option for those targeting M&A or venture capital roles.